30 Unique Subway Tile Pattern Ideas

Classic subway tile, oh, the possibilities! It creates a modern, streamlined feel while providing texture. In fact, we’ve used it in our herringbone bathroom, our marble powder room, and a navy-blue bathroom.

Subway tile first appeared in underground train stations in New York in the early 1900s. Homeowners caught on, adopting new pattern styles to keep it fresh. The original was 3″ x 6″ and white, but there are many variations now.

So let’s explore creative, designer-inspired ideas to with subway tile patterns that go with almost any home style.

30 Subway Tile Pattern Ideas

Traditional rectangular patterns can be a bit monotonous. Good news! New size, color, and texture choices are right at your fingertips.

• There’s no rule stating it needs to be laid in straight rows.
• Tile choice and pattern design will set the visual tone for your room.
• See examples below for creative subway tile layouts utilizing rectangular tile.

The Most Popular Tile Patterns

More Unique Variations

Create even more visual interest with slight variations in these basic patterns.

• Turn a vertical herringbone 45 degrees for a completely different look.
• Stack tiles vertically to create the illusion of a taller, more spacious room.
• Break down the various patterns to keep options from feeling overwhelming.
• Subway & rectangular tile layouts break down into 3 different categories. See examples below.

Offset Subway Tile Patterns

Subway tiles can either line up end to end with the next tile, called stacked pattern or be offset. Stacked pattern, such as the middle photo below works beautifully for a super clean and modern feel.

Offset subway tile layouts include running bond (aka brick bond), and ⅓ offset layouts. Depending on your overall vision, install tiles vertically, horizontally, or running at a diagonal. Examples are below.

Herringbone

Creating a tile pattern with angles, such as a herringbone or 45-degree running bond, presents more challenges than a traditional vertical or horizontal installation.

But don’t be daunted! In truth, only the first row is difficult-after that, it’s simply a matter of keeping your spacing even and staying on course. The same process applies to laying any tile.

The results speak for themselves. Angled tiles really add something special, don’t they? Playing with various combinations and even changing something as simple as the angle in which it is laid can have stunning results. Two beautiful examples are below:

Chevron

There’s a slight difference between herringbone and chevron patterns. Herringbone involves using traditional rectangular tiles to build a zig-zag pattern. Chevron, on the other hand, uses parallelogram shapes to create a wave-like pattern. It doesn’t use traditional subway tiles, but it’s offered in a similar style.

Combination/Basketweave Patterns

Ready, set, retro. Basket weave patterns work by stacking tiles to create neat squares and rectangles. It consolidates large spaces for a unique mod vibe. This particular pattern is rather rare, but it works beautifully with rich colors and contrasting grout.

Put Some Color in Your Design

While white is the most popular shade, a splash of color increases the “wow” factor. Introducing color is an instant way to refresh your space. Available in a plethora of shades from bright solids to calm neutrals. You can create a distinctive mood to match your style, whether it’s in a shower stall or your kitchen backsplash!

Use Contrasting Grout

Want to add subtle sophistication without the hassle of replacing a single tile? Change the color of your grout! Choose from dozens of shades of grout, or dye your own for a custom color, to add depth and drama to your tile design.

Dark-colored grout outlines the individual tiles to emphasize size and shape. The contrast is crisp and contemporary, a welcome deviation from the classic white aesthetic.

Texture

Although it is traditionally a flat ceramic tile, there are many beautiful textural options today. Examples include beveled, textured surfaces that look handmade or organically shaped tiles that make an entire wall appear textured.

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Mix and Match Different Tiles

A beautiful variations is to use it to showcase a variety of other tiles. Incorporating a vertical or horizontal band with a different tile or pattern adds visual interest without clashing. We integrated blue glass tile in the shower niche in our subway tile shower for a bold design statement.

How do you know what tile to mix together? When I design a bathroom, I lay out ALL the materials in the store. I like to bring a vanity drawer front, door handle, or faucet color and choose all of my tile at the same time. This assists me in creating a cohesive style.

Mix Patterns or Create an Inset

In another shower rehab project, we laid a herringbone tile inset to play with pattern rather than color. The herringbone inset added sophistication. Pattern play is ideal for focal walls, above kitchen ranges, and floors.

Pro Tip: This pattern integration is a budget boost! Laying a herringbone pattern reduced the total number of tiles required for this project.